The Wagner Red Raider football team is gearing up for what promises to be an exciting season. Head Coach Hunter Hewitt says the team is “looking good” after a productive offseason where players put in the work to position themselves for success.

One of the team’s biggest strengths this year is experience. Nine of the eleven projected starters have significant varsity playing time, giving the Red Raiders a solid foundation heading into the season. Coach Hewitt notes that returning leaders like Gannon Knebel, Shea Kjeldegaard, Javian Pesicka, Bennet Kuhlman, Kobe Drapeau, Carlos Galindo, Trasin Dilts, Ky Arpan, Trey Segura, and Brayden Kreber will be key contributors.

Several younger players have also stepped up during practice, including Jesse Zephier, Cruise Koupal, Payne Petry, Beau Otte, Robert Frei, and Bodie Chaffin, all of whom could make an impact on the field this year.

The Red Raiders plan to rely on a physical, aggressive playing style, using their size and speed to dominate on both sides of the ball. Coach Hewitt expects the offensive line to “move bodies,” while Jr. RB Javian Pesicka and Sophomore RB Payne Petry will share the load to keep Senior QB Gannon Knebel fresh. Expect big plays from receivers Carlos Galindo and Shea Kjeldegaard in the air attack.

Discipline is an area the team is focusing on improving. “We need to have less self-inflicted issues, like penalties or missed assignments,” Hewitt says. With that focus, the goal is to win as many games as possible and position the team for a late-season playoff run.

The offseason has been encouraging, with growth seen in both key contributors and future stars. One standout moment came at the SDSU team camp in June, where Wagner’s squad held its own against schools two or three times their size.

As the season opener approaches, the team is preparing to face the Chamberlain Cubs, studying their offensive and defensive schemes while getting mentally and physically ready. Coach Hewitt feels Winner and Elk Point as likely the toughest competition in the conference but emphasizes that game plans will be tailored each week to give the team the best chance to succeed.

“The pride these kids have in winning and their desire to dominate each rep is exciting,” Coach Hewitt says. The team hopes to carry that mindset off the field, building a brotherhood and creating memories that last a lifetime.

The Wagner Red Raiders identity this season is clear: fast, aggressive, and determined to make plays. Fans can expect a team that competes hard every week and looks to leave a mark on the field.